Welcome to the Washburn Library Guide, your premier resource for navigating the vast collection of books within our walls. As a hub of knowledge and learning, our library is committed to providing you with the tools and expertise necessary to find the books you need quickly and efficiently. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to locate books, explore our catalog system, and offer tips on how to make the most out of your library experience.
Understanding the Library Catalog
The Washburn Library catalog is a comprehensive database that contains information about all the books, journals, and other materials available in our collection. To find books, you can search the catalog by title, author, subject, or keyword. Our catalog is user-friendly and can be accessed from any computer with an internet connection, allowing you to plan your visit or request materials from the comfort of your own home. The catalog includes bibliographic records for each item, which provide detailed information such as publication date, publisher, and a summary of the content.
Search Strategies for Books
When searching for books in the catalog, it’s essential to use the right search terms and strategies. Here are a few tips to help you get started: - Use specific keywords related to the topic you’re researching. - Try author searches if you know the name of the writer. - Utilize subject headings to find books on a particular theme or topic. - Experiment with advanced search options to narrow down your results by date, format, or language.
For example, if you're looking for books on the history of Washburn, you could use the keywords "Washburn history" or try a subject search using headings like "Local History" or "Kansas History." Our catalog also allows you to filter your search results by format, so you can easily find e-books, audiobooks, or physical copies.
| Search Type | Example Search Terms |
|---|---|
| Keyword Search | "Washburn University", "library resources" |
| Author Search | "John Smith", "Jane Doe" |
| Subject Search | "Education", "Psychology" |
Browsing the Shelves
While our catalog is an invaluable tool, sometimes the best way to find a book is by browsing the shelves. The Washburn Library uses the Dewey Decimal Classification system to organize our books, making it easy to find related topics together. If you’re looking for a specific book and can’t find it on the shelf, don’t hesitate to ask our library staff for assistance. We also offer a book retrieval service for items that are currently checked out or stored in our off-site facilities.
Interlibrary Loan Services
In cases where the book you need is not available in our collection, we offer interlibrary loan services. This allows you to request books from other libraries across the country, which are then delivered to our library for you to borrow. Our interlibrary loan service is a powerful tool for researchers and students alike, providing access to a vast network of libraries and their collections.
To request a book through interlibrary loan, simply log in to your library account, find the book you're interested in, and click the "Request" button. You will be prompted to enter some basic information, and then the request will be processed. You can track the status of your request through your library account, and we will notify you as soon as the book is available for pickup.
Here are some key statistics about our interlibrary loan service: - 90% of requests are filled within 7-10 business days - We have partnerships with over 100 libraries nationwide - Our interlibrary loan service is available to all current students, faculty, and staff
| Service | Description | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Interlibrary Loan | Borrow books from other libraries | Current students, faculty, staff |
| Book Retrieval | Request books from off-site storage | Current students, faculty, staff |
Additional Resources and Services
Beyond our book collection, the Washburn Library offers a range of resources and services designed to support your academic and research needs. From study rooms and computer labs to research assistance and workshops, we are committed to helping you succeed. Our library is also a hub for technological innovation, with tools like 3D printing, virtual reality equipment, and multimedia production software available for use.
Librarian Support
Our librarians are here to help you every step of the way, from finding books and resources to guiding you through the research process. Whether you’re a freshman looking for help with your first research paper or a graduate student working on a dissertation, our librarians are dedicated to providing you with the support and expertise you need to excel. You can reach out to us through our website, by phone, or in person at the library’s information desk.
Some examples of how our librarians can assist you include: - Research consultations: one-on-one meetings to discuss your research project and identify relevant resources - Workshops and classes: group instruction on topics like information literacy, citation management, and database searching - Embedded librarianship: librarians who work directly with faculty to integrate information literacy into the curriculum
How do I find books in the Washburn Library catalog?
+
To find books in the Washburn Library catalog, you can search by title, author, subject, or keyword. Use the advanced search options to narrow down your results by date, format, or language. You can also browse the shelves using the Dewey Decimal Classification system.
What if the book I need is not available in the Washburn Library collection?
+
If the book you need is not available in our collection, you can request it through our interlibrary loan service. This allows you to borrow books from other libraries across the country. Simply log in to your library account, find the book you’re interested in, and click the “Request” button.
How can I get help with my research project?
+
Our librarians are here to help you with your research project. You can reach out to us through our website, by phone, or in person at the library’s information desk. We offer research consultations, workshops, and embedded librarianship to support you every step of the way.
What resources are available for distance learners?
+
We offer e-book collections and digital resources that can be accessed remotely. These resources include thousands of e-books, articles, and other materials that can be downloaded or streamed directly to your device. Our librarians are also available to support distance learners through online research consultations and workshops.
How can I access the library’s technological resources?
